Wybone Limited recognises the organisational advantages from behaving ethically, with humanity, compassion and with consideration for the external environment.

The best staff want to work for truly responsible and ethical employers, and Wybone is striving to ensure that it operates within a ethically responsible framework. We know that good staff make Wybone a good company. The company is committed to investing in the local community, and this is the backdrop in every action taken, from recruitment and selection, to the charity events that are held on a regular basis. The companies stakeholders are at the heart of everything we do, and the company has a growing reputation for inward investing in the local area and community.

TrainingWhen a member of staff joins the Wybone team, they are put through a rigorous induction programme, and given a good understanding of the company structure, the products that we make and the beliefs and philosophy behind the manufacture of the products. Having employed people for neighbouring villages in Barnsley, South Yorkshire for over 35 years, all positions are advertised in the local press, and the vast majority of staff live within a 3 mile radius of the factory. To date, the majority of factory staff are trained to at least NVQ Level 2 standard, or equivalent, and are given regular opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge in manufacturing industry specific areas. In addition, statutory training on subjects such as fork lift truck driving and first aid training are held on a quarterly basis, and all staff are given the opportunity to undertake further development.

Education
Within the office, the company encourages staff to undertake professional qualifications, with individuals working towards HND in Business Studies, CIMA qualifications and Master Degrees in Manufacturing. Staff are encouraged to cascade the knowledge they acquire internally to other staff once they return back to the workplace.

Communication
Communication is key within the business, and staff are kept informed of developments through regular team meetings and employee briefs. Training and development reviews are held on a regular basis, and staff are encouraged to develop themselves, therefore not only enhancing their interest in the role, but also continuing to build the skill base in the local community.

Local Community
We also have strong connections with the local educational establishments. We actively encourage student placements, helping students in the area to build a portfolio of skills to ensure they are “work ready”, and this year to date Wybone have worked closely with the University of Huddersfield and Sheffield Hallam University. Health and safety is crucial within a manufacturing environment, and we pride ourselves in ensuring that Wybone is a safe and hazard-free place to work. Our health and safety policy is a clear guideline to staff on how to operate safely within the factory and offices, and refresher training ensures staff remain knowledgeable and aware.

Fund Raising
Wybone’s chosen charity is Weston Park Cancer Appeal in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. The most recent event held was the “Wear It Pink” day, where £1265 was raised by staff. Other events where money is raised are “Dress Down Fridays” and a Dragon Boat Race day, where staff work as part of a team rowing a boat in competition with other local firms. The Companies chosen charity is reviewed on an annual basis, and staff are given the opportunity to support a charity which is personally important to them.

Transparency
Before making decisions, managers within the company give consideration to transparency, and whether they would be happy to justify the decision publicly, the effect the decision will have on others and whether the decision would be deemed as fair, taking into consideration stakeholders. If the answer is yes, then it is likely that the decision made within the business is deemed as an ethical decision.